7 Vital Things Every Child Should Learn From Their Father

There are some bits of advice that have a stronger impact when they come from the father. Fathers can have a huge positive impact on their children’s future when they teach them about the following:

1-How to start a business: I had a male client once who, rather than making his daughters get summer jobs, made them start small businesses, showing them how to do it. I knew that financially speaking his girls would always be ok. Every child should learn the basics of starting a business, so they are never afraid to try something so fun and rewarding.

2-The basics of self-defense: Sadly, I think most women and girls underestimate how much stronger men are than women physically. Girls, especially, should be taught at least basic self-defense, so they are never a victim.

3-Your physical body is sacred: This lesson is taught not by words but by actions, or rather by not hitting your children and spouses. Abuse is a learned behavior and it can stop when both parents decide not to do that to their children. Spanking is not a healthy form of discipline, ask any therapist.

4-Education is a key to success: Encourage your children to learn the value of learning and growing through education even if it’s not formal education.

5-You can do anything: Life will show children otherwise but the understanding that they are capable of doing anything and having any career that makes them happy needs to start at home.

6-How to buy a car: The car-buying process is ridiculous. It’s a game that—let’s be honest—in most households men do for the family. Girls and boys need to learn this process and how not to get manipulated or intimidated by it.

7-You are loved no matter what: Children need to be taught that no matter what their occupation, marital status, sexual preferences, or politics they will be loved and accepted as family for the rest of their lives. This is the most important message every parent needs to give to every child.

As a father, you have an opportunity to help the next generation of children to be more empowered and confident than the generation before. I would encourage all fathers and those who act as father figures to take on and be a part of making the world a better place.